ABOVE AND BEYOND AWARD
TRACY SMITH
Tracey Smith, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CNE is a nurse educator, family nurse practitioner, and lifelong learner who has spent many years of her career in school. After progressing from nurse aide to certificate LVN, ADN, BSN, MSN, DNP and post master’s certificate in Global Health, she jokes that when she got tired of paying for school, she decided to let school pay her and became an educator. Her journey has given her a unique perspective on nursing across all levels of practice and a deep appreciation for the many pathways into the profession.
Her nursing experience spans bedside medical-surgical nursing, hospice nursing, primary care, organizational leadership, international medical missions, and disaster relief. These diverse experiences have shaped her passion for service, advocacy, and advancing the nursing profession.
Today, Dr. Smith serves as Director of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program at Texas State University, where she is dedicated to preparing future nurse leaders and advanced practice nurses. She is also a Legacy Member of Texas Nurse Practitioners, serves as a Legislative Ambassador, and is a member of the TNP Health Policy Committee.
Dr. Smith is grateful for the support of her husband, Delaney, and her sons, Zach and Griffin. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family, playing games, camping, kayaking, and sharing lots of laughter.
Dr. Smith’s unwavering dedication, leadership, and passion for preparing future professionals make her an outstanding recipient of this recognition.
